Jessie Reyez in Vancouver proved that anytime the visionary artist comes to town, things are going to get crazy. The 34-year-old Canadian singer-songwriter is fresh off her Paid In Memories album release. Following its debut, Jessie brought the world the Paid In Memories Tour. Just like the record’s wild success, the tour exploded. Selling out shows from her hometown to Europe and of course Vancouver. In fact, the demand here was so strong that an additional show had to be added. The two-night event took place at the Vogue Theatre and was truly something to remember.
Judging by the busy turnout of fans dressed for the occasion before doors opened. I knew things were going to be special. The moment those doors flung open, concertgoers were fueled by adrenaline. They rushed to the front, trying to grab the closest spot to the pit. By the time 8pm arrived, opener Raahiim took the stage for an intimate set that set the tone for the night. Audience members swayed along, and by the end of his performance, fans couldn’t get his songs out of their heads.
As 9 p.m. rolled around, the lights darkened and a crescendo of a thousand joyful screams marked the beginning of Jessie Reyez in Vancouver. She opened the night with “I NEVER SAID I WAS SANE,” rocking shades and channeling a Charli XCX BRAT-era vibe that fans were fully embracing. From there, we got more hits from Paid In Memories including “BEGGIN 4 LUV,” and during “GOLIATH” we witnessed a special moment as Reyez’s father joined her on stage. It was brief but heartfelt, with the two sharing an intimate dance. The moment ended with a hug, sealing it all on a personal and emotional note.
Continuing the set, Jessie Reyez in Vancouver mixed in some classics like “Fuck It,” “Imported,” and “Coffin.” Those fan favorites were followed by new standouts, as Reyez’s latest album has received nothing but praise. Ten tracks from the album made up the 25-track night. Hits like “PSILOCYBIN & DAISIES,” “JEANS,” and “PALO SANTO” had fans erupting. They sang every word, as they did for most of the night, which brought these songs to an even grander life. Instead of feeling like tracks that were only a few months old, it was as if fans had been living in them for years.
Even with a lengthy set, by the time we reached the night’s end with “COULDN’T B ME” and “STILL C U,” fans weren’t ready to let go. The audience gave Jessie Reyez in Vancouver everything they had, singing, dancing, and owning the night. From moments of fans raising their middle fingers in the air, to Jessie performing from the top half of her stage setup, to her dancing with her father, the show was packed with unforgettable highlights. As the final note reached its peak, Jessie flashed the crowd a grin of excitement, clearly impressed by Vancity. I know I can speak for everyone in attendance when I say Jessie Reyez in Vancouver was an extraordinary spectacle. She is a must-see act who continues to impress more with every visit.
I’d like to thank Jessie and her team for allowing us to experience the show. If you’d like to find out more on the artist, please visit here: Jessie Reyez Website
